Kasta: Jurnal Ilmu Sosial, Agama, Budaya dan Terapan
Vol. 6 No. 4 (2026): October

Developing Indonesian Migrant Worker Protection Policies Through Experience and Needs Analysis: A Case Study of Migrant Workers in Saudi Arabia

H. Moh. Juhad (Institut Teknologi Sosial dan Kesehatan Muhammadiyah Selong)
Siti Hidayatul Jumaah (Institut Teknologi Sosial dan Kesehatan Muhammadiyah Selong)
Abdur Rahim (Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Oct 2026

Abstract

The high number of Indonesian migrant worker (IMW) placements is always accompanied by its complex problems. Although many efforts have been made, in fact, migrant workers problems continue to occur. Therefore, a study is needed on the experiences and needs of Indonesian migrant workers while in the country of placement. This study will be useful for developing IMW protection policies, both before and during placement. This study uses a case study approach, by taking a case study on migrant workers of Indonesia who are working in Saudi Arabia. Data collection was carried out through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. To test the validity of the data, triangulation of findings was carried out. The results of the study showed that the experiences and needs of IMWs are very diverse. During pre-placement, IMW had difficulty accessing various information regarding the initial requirements for placement, working conditions in the country of placement, and the salaries and benefits received. Training that was not optimal in terms of language also provided important experience for IMW. Regarding finances, it turns out that migrant workers received some money as a down payment for being placed in Saudi Arabia. In addition, the salary received as an illegal migrant worker for some IMWs turned out to be greater than the salary received as a legal migrant worker, and this is worthy of attention, because many migrant workers ultimately prefer to become illegal migrant workers. Referring to this experience, migrant workers need adequate access to information, quality training, the need for safe working conditions, and a guarantee of salary in accordance with the agreement. This study provides suggestions to the government to be able to develop migrant workers protection policies, through increased socialization, increased training, supervision of agents and employers, and increased cooperation that can guarantee the achievement of IMW rights in the country of placement.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

kasta

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

KASTA adalah Jurnal Ilmu Sosial, Agama, Budaya dan Terapan dibawah lembaga Bale Literasi . Jurnal ini terbit tiga kali setahun, yaitu bulan April,Agustus dan Desember, ini memuat tentang ilmu-ilmu sosial, keagamaan, baik dalam pemikiran Islam,dan kajian Islam lainnya, kajian tetang budaya serta ilmu ...